How to Treat a Chlorine Spill

Chlorine is used in swimming pools and cleaners to keep bacteria from forming. In strong concentrations, it can be harmful to the environment as well as people. It can also kill plants and animals if ingested. It gives off an odor that is toxic and can cause burning eyes. If chlorine is spilled it should be cleaned up promptly to prevent damage. However, proper protocol must be followed to make sure the chlorine causes the least amount of impact possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Turn off the apparatus that is causing the leak if you can. For example, if it is a machine that is causing it, turn it off immediately. If it is leaking from a cylinder, set the cylinder upright and take it to a well-ventilated area if you can do so without touching the chlorine or breathing it in.

• 2

  Check to confirm that there are not any sources of heat or flame nearby that could cause an explosion. If there are, remove the source if you can safely. If not, leave the vicinity immediately.

• 3

  Make sure no one is in the affected area and evacuate 50 feet away from the spill upwind. It is important that neither you nor anyone else is exposed to the chlorine's odor as it can make you ill.

• 4

  Call 911 and report the chlorine spill. In addition to asking where the spill is located, the 911 operator may ask how much has been spilled and if there are any victims. Once a HAZMAT team or fire department has arrived, they will clean up the spill. They will ask you for pertinent information regarding the spill, such as what caused it.

• 5

  Wait for help to arrive and stay away from the chlorine. While you are waiting, warn anyone passing by that chlorine has been spilled and make sure they stay away from it.